There are many ways to show your dog that she is your best friend and an important member of your family.More >>

There are many ways to show your dog that she is your best friend and an important member of your family. From doing activities together to creating a space just for her, these are some easy ways you can strengthen your bond with your four-legged friend.More >>

Inviting guests to your home when you have a new or energetic dog can prove to be challenging. Just a little training -- for both your dog and your guests -- will make visits more enjoyable for everyone.More >>

Inviting guests to your home when you have a new or energetic dog can prove to be challenging. Just a little training -- for both your dog and your guests -- will make visits more enjoyable for everyone.More >>

Since your dog hasn't mastered speaking in words yet, you may wonder how you can tell if your dog is feeling okay. It turns out, many of the clues can come from just looking at your dog and reading his body language.More >>

Since your dog hasn't mastered speaking in words yet, you may wonder how you can tell if your dog is feeling okay. It turns out, many of the clues can come from just looking at your dog and reading his body language.More >>

Boarding your dog can be a stressful time for both you and your pooch. If you take the time to prep ahead of time, however, there’s no reason the time your furry friend spends being boarded can’t be both fun and stress free.More >>

Boarding your dog can be a stressful time for both you and your pooch. If you take the time to prep ahead of time, however, there’s no reason the time your furry friend spends being boarded can’t be both fun and stress free.More >>

Over the past few years there has been a lot of talk about specific dog breeds that are "hypoallergenic" and perfect for families with members who have pet allergies. Is this talk fact or fiction?More >>

Over the past few years there has been a lot of talk about specific dog breeds that are "hypoallergenic" and perfect for families with members who have pet allergies. Is this talk fact or fiction?More >>

Spring-cleaning evokes thoughts of changing the smoke alarm batteries, cleaning the windows and clearing the gutters of debris. When it comes to your dog, there are also things that must be checked and maintained to keep your pet in tip-top season-ready shape.

1. Identification verification

Has your phone number or address changed recently? Check to ensure ID tags are legible, lettering is intact and information is correct and up-to-date.

2. First aid

Check expiration dates and refill any items in the first aid and emergency evacuation kit(s) for your dog.

3. Food safety

Stale food should be avoided, as bacteria can quickly infiltrate improperly stored dog food. Double-check that all containers are airtight and sealed properly. Dispose of any expired canned foods.

4. Pest patrol

Contrary to popular belief, fleas do not take the winter off, and they can often live in a warm residence all winter long. Ticks may feel like a bump on your dog's skin, so thoroughly inspect for any changes in skin or coat.

5. Linen check

Spring is a good time to provide new filler for dog bedding. Year-round, keep your dog's bed linens cleaned and laundered at least weekly. Paws bring plenty of outside germs inside.

6. Dog doctor

Yearly checkups seem to have gone the way of 8-tracks and cassette tapes. Visiting the veterinarian at least twice a year ensures long-term health and well-being for your dog.

7. Dental care

If routine tooth care is not a part of a regular routine, spring is a great time to start or continue this imperative oral-maintenance plan.

8. Ear care

Keep ears clean and in tip-top shape under the direction of your veterinarian. Aside from helping hearing improve, good ear care means less infections and a decreased tendency to form yeast and bacteria.

9. Bowl check

Inspect dog bowls to ensure they are clean and sturdy. Germs and bacteria can easily transfer themselves from bowl to mouth in the swoop of a tongue.

10. Exercise examination

Seeing a few post-winter love handles on your dog? Under the guidance of a vet, be certain that your dog is receiving a proper amount of daily physical and mental stimulation.

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